When shopping for sunglasses, you’ll often see a wide range of prices, from budget options for under $20 to luxury, designer brands that cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Why are some sunglasses so expensive while others aren’t? — you’re not alone.
In this blog, we’ll explore what factors influence the price of sunglasses, examine the different options for luxury and budget sunglasses, and help you decide whether a high-priced pair of sunglasses is worth the investment.
Factors That Influence the Price of Sunglasses
Contrary to what some people think, the price of sunglasses isn’t arbitrary. Several elements contribute to the cost of sunglasses, including brand reputation, quality of materials, and level of craftsmanship involved in their creation.
Brand Reputation
One of the biggest factors influencing the price of sunglasses is the brand itself.
High-end brands like Tom Ford and Hugo Boss, or luxury fashion houses such as Gucci and Armani have established strong reputations for quality, style, and prestige. That’s why, when you buy their sunglasses, you’re not just buying a product — you’re buying into the brand’s heritage, credibility, and exclusivity.
Additionally, designer brands often invest more in marketing, research, and innovation than “cheaper” brands, a higher level of commitment that is factored into the higher price tag.
Premium Materials
The materials used in sunglasses also play a major role in determining their price.
Budget sunglasses are often made with inexpensive plastic frames and basic lenses offering limited UV protection. On the other hand, luxury sunglasses are often made with luxury materials, offering a more premium experience with better durability, more comfort, and better UV protection.
The lenses in premium sunglasses are also a step above their inexpensive counterparts. Luxury sunglass lenses may include polarized coatings, high-quality polycarbonate, or even mineral glass, which provide superior clarity and scratch resistance. These materials might be more costly, but they also enhance the sunglasses’ overall quality, longevity, and functionality.
Superior Craftsmanship
Finally, the level of craftsmanship required for sunglasses also contributes to the price.
Many luxury brands use artisanal processes to craft their sunglasses, including hand assembly, detailed engravings, and precision polishing. This level of craftsmanship requires time, expertise, and an unmatched commitment to quality which is accounted for in the higher price point of luxury sunglasses.
The higher level of craftsmanship often requires rigorous testing for durability and quality to ensure the sunglasses look good and stand the test of time, too. And, while all of these details do add to the cost, they also result in sunglasses of unparalleled quality that are absolutely worth investing in.
Comparison Between Budget and Luxury Sunglasses
Now that we know what factors contribute to the price of sunglasses, let’s compare luxury and budget sunglasses to understand the key differences.
Quality of Lenses
Budget sunglasses lenses provide basic UV protection, but their clarity and durability are often subpar. Some budget lenses can also distort your vision, causing eye strain and headaches.
In contrast, luxury sunglasses often include high-quality polarized lenses that significantly reduce glare and improve contrast, making them the superior choice for bright, sunny days or outdoor activities like driving. Luxury brands also prioritize optical quality in their lenses, so wearers often experience less eye fatigue and better clarity over time. Plus, anti-reflective and anti-scratch coatings are typically applied automatically to luxury lenses!
Frame Durability and Comfort
Budget sunglasses are often made with low-quality plastics that can be uncomfortable to wear and prone to breaking or snapping.
In comparison, the frames in luxury sunglasses are typically crafted with longevity in mind, using high-quality materials that are lightweight, strong, and aesthetically pleasing. Luxury frames are often more ergonomic, too, designed for extended wear without sacrificing comfort. This attention to comfort and fit is why many people find designer sunglasses the better and more reliable choice for everyday, long-term wear.
Style and Exclusivity
While budget sunglasses may offer trendy designs, they often lack the unique, high-fashion, and timeless aesthetic that luxury brands bring.
On the other hand, luxury sunglasses brands often set the trends that budget brands follow, establishing the standard for what’s stylish and popular in eyewear. Luxury brands are also known to take trend-setting one step further with limited-edition sunglasses, elevating the exclusivity and desirability of their products. Plus, designer brands often have better, more exclusive sustainability and ethics practices that appeal to customers, too.
Is the High Price Tag of Luxury Sunglasses Worth It? Pros and Cons
So, now that you better understand what goes into the price of luxury sunglasses, it’s up to you to decide whether they’re worth it. Here’s a list of pros and cons to help guide your decision
Pros of Luxury Sunglasses
1. Quality and Durability — They typically last longer and are built with better materials.
2. Optical Protection — They often include superior lenses with advanced UV protection.
3. Comfort and Fit — They’re often more ergonomic and comfortable for prolonged wear.
4. Style and Exclusivity — They offer an unparalleled level of exclusivity and prestige.
Cons of Luxury Sunglasses
1. High Cost — Budget-conscious shoppers may find their high cost hard to justify.
2. Maintenance and Care — They require careful handling and are more costly to repair.
3. Diminishing Returns — Their long-term benefits may not appeal/apply to casual wearers.
Wrap Up
The answer to why some sunglasses are so expensive lies in the brand reputation, premium materials, and exceptional craftsmanship of high-end sunglasses — three factors that quickly add up to a high-quality product at a high-end price point.
So, should you buy luxury sunglasses? Ultimately, whether to invest in high-quality sunglasses comes down to your needs and wants. Designer sunglasses may be rewarding if you value quality and want long-lasting eyewear that combines function and fashion. But for those who prioritize affordability and occasional use, there are budget-friendly options that can still provide the essential UV protection and basic functionality you need. Only you can decide!
